Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
This course is an introduction to the practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will be introduced to the key movements and styles which have shaped this subject area and have the opportunity to develop your graphic design skills.
The course will be taught in our dedicated Visual Communication studio which is equipped with macs and scanners, a range of Adobe software, drawing tablets, printers and a vast range of drawing and painting materials.
What will we cover?
The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern.
How to create designs which communicate specific information.
Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief.
The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital.
The key movements and styles within the subject area.
Please note that this course will explore physical, analogue methods within graphic design which will include some drawing. Computer software is not taught as part of the course.
What will I achieve? By the end of this course you should be able to...
Research, develop and realise simple graphic designs in response to a brief.
Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable for beginners.
English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Presentations
Demonstrations
Practical work
Individual and group tutoring
Group discussion
Additional/extension activities may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you.
Self-reflection is an important part of learning in art education and creative practice. You will be encouraged to engage with reflecting on your own work and progress as part of the learning process in Visual Arts.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
We recommend looking at our Developing Graphic Design course as a next step in your progression. In addition, we offer a range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.
For more information about any of the courses on offer, please visit our website.
Andy McCarten is a graphic design consultant and lecturer with over thirty years of commercial and academic experience in creating and leading national and international design projects for clients in TV, retail, manufacturing, finance and banking, across Europe and beyond. Andrew has worked with commercial clients including KLM, London Underground, Narvesen, TV2 Norway, BBC, BAA Heathrow, American Express. Having overseen the production of many print and electronic communications, in the commercial arena and within education, including a previous post at Ravensbourne University College for the art and design foundation course. The foundation course has creative idea generating and making at the core of the education process. He is currently developing courses with CityLit for the Advanced Visual Communications area. 'My motivation is to ensure my students get to fully realise their abilities and talents, to succeed in life.' Andrew is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, and member of the Typographic Circle. www.amdesigndesk.com www.linkedin.com/in/andrewmccarten
Pam WilliamsSee moreSee less
Pam Williams is a designer and an educator with a wealth of industry experience. Working with leading architects, including Foster and Partners to create exhibition and signage design. Whilst at The Museum of London she produced graphic illustrations for inhouse Archaeology publications. She is responsible for the visual identity and promotional material for Peckham based Ganapati Restaurant. Pam has been lead as well as contributed to teaching Visual Communications at the University of the Arts on the Foundation course and for Central Saint Martin Summer School Programme. She is a graduate of Central Saint Martins and The Royal College of Art.
John SmythSee moreSee less
John is a seasoned graphic designer and educator, bringing over twenty years of experience in art direction, graphic design, and illustration to his teaching practice. With expertise in delivering impactful design solutions, John's career spans a wide array of disciplines, including exhibition design, information systems, brand identity, packaging, and promotional materials. His client list is as diverse as his portfolio, with notable projects including work for the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Tower Bridge London, the London Fire Brigade Museum, and the National Library of Scotland. John's meticulous approach to design ensures that every project, from concept to execution, is delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest creative standard. His exhibition work transforms spaces into immersive storytelling experiences that engage, inform, and inspire, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. As a freelance designer and former senior exhibition graphic designer, John has contributed to award-nominated projects and gained recognition from clients and visitors alike. He holds a passion for design and storytelling, matched with his dedication to teaching.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
product
https://www.citylit.ac.uk/introduction-to-graphic-design334470Introduction to graphic designhttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/i/n/intro_graphic_design_web_01_1_5.jpg399399GBPInStock/Courses/Courses/Art & design/Courses/Art & design/Graphic design & illustration/Courses/Art & design/Graphic design & illustration/Graphic design/Courses/vm/Beginners courses in art & design/Courses/vm/Creative courses228511321163117513608867312285113211631653<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image, type and layout to visually communicate ideas in a variety of different ways.<br> </p>44.8https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/i/n/intro_graphic_design_web_02_1_5.jpghttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/i/n/intro_graphic_design_web_03_1_5.jpg3068119Introduction to graphic design399399https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/i/n/intro_graphic_design_web_01_1_2.jpgInStockDaytimeWedKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2027-01-06T00:00:00+00:00BeginnersJan 2027Art & designVZ122399399Introduction to graphic design319259399Andrew McCarten, Pam Williamsintroduction-to-graphic-design/vz122-2627<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image, type and layout to visually communicate ideas in a variety of different ways.<br> </p>0000-Available|2027-01-06 00:00:00<p>This course is an introduction to the practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will be introduced to the key movements and styles which have shaped this subject area and have the opportunity to develop your graphic design skills.</p><p>The course will be taught in our dedicated Visual Communication studio which is equipped with macs and scanners, a range of Adobe software, drawing tablets, printers and a vast range of drawing and painting materials.<br> </p><p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image, type and layout to visually communicate ideas in a variety of different ways.<br> </p><ul><li>The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern.</li><li>How to create designs which communicate specific information.</li><li>Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief.</li><li>The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital.</li><li>The key movements and styles within the subject area.</li></ul><p>Please note that this course will explore physical, analogue methods within graphic design which will include some drawing. Computer software is not taught as part of the course.<br> </p><ul><li>Manipulate imagery, type, layout, colour, shape, pattern to communicate basic information. </li><li>Research, develop and realise simple graphic designs in response to a brief.</li><li>Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles. </li></ul><p>This course is suitable for beginners.</p><p><em>English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.</em><br> </p><ul><li>Presentations</li><li>Demonstrations</li><li>Practical work</li><li>Individual and group tutoring</li><li>Group discussion</li></ul><p>Additional/extension activities may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you.</p><p><em>Self-reflection is an important part of learning in art education and creative practice. You will be encouraged to engage with reflecting on your own work and progress as part of the learning process in Visual Arts.</em></p><p>At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required.<br> </p><p>We recommend looking at our Developing Graphic Design course as a next step in your progression. In addition, we offer a range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.</p><p>For more information about any of the courses on offer, please visit our website.</p><p><a href="http://citylit.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.citylit.ac.uk</a><br> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designvirtual3068143Introduction to graphic design399399https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/i/n/intro_graphic_design_web_01_1_3.jpgInStockEveningThuKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2027-06-17T00:00:00+00:00BeginnersJun 2027Art & designVZ378399399Introduction to graphic design319259399John Smyth, Pam Williamsintroduction-to-graphic-design/vz378-2627<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image, type and layout to visually communicate ideas in a variety of different ways.<br> </p>0000-Available|2027-06-17 00:00:00<p>This course is an introduction to the practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will be introduced to the key movements and styles which have shaped this subject area and have the opportunity to develop your graphic design skills.</p><p>The course will be taught in our dedicated Visual Communication studio which is equipped with macs and scanners, a range of Adobe software, drawing tablets, printers and a vast range of drawing and painting materials.<br> </p><p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image, type and layout to visually communicate ideas in a variety of different ways.<br> </p><ul><li>The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern.</li><li>How to create designs which communicate specific information.</li><li>Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief.</li><li>The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital.</li><li>The key movements and styles within the subject area.</li></ul><p>Please note that this course will explore physical, analogue methods within graphic design which will include some drawing. Computer software is not taught as part of the course.<br> </p><ul><li>Manipulate imagery, type, layout, colour, shape, pattern to communicate basic information. </li><li>Research, develop and realise simple graphic designs in response to a brief.</li><li>Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles. </li></ul><p>This course is suitable for beginners.</p><p><em>English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.</em><br> </p><ul><li>Presentations</li><li>Demonstrations</li><li>Practical work</li><li>Individual and group tutoring</li><li>Group discussion</li></ul><p>Additional/extension activities may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you.</p><p><em>Self-reflection is an important part of learning in art education and creative practice. You will be encouraged to engage with reflecting on your own work and progress as part of the learning process in Visual Arts.</em></p><p>At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required.<br> </p><p>We recommend looking at our Developing Graphic Design course as a next step in your progression. In addition, we offer a range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.</p><p>For more information about any of the courses on offer, please visit our website.</p><p><a href="http://citylit.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.citylit.ac.uk</a><br> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designvirtual3030280Introduction to graphic design399399https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/i/n/intro_graphic_design_web_01_1.jpgInStockEveningWedKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2026-09-09T00:00:00+00:00BeginnersSep 2026Art & designVZ371399399Introduction to graphic design319259399Andrew McCarten, Pam Williamsintroduction-to-graphic-design/vz371-2627<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image, type and layout to visually communicate ideas in a variety of different ways.<br> </p>0000-Available|2026-09-09 00:00:00<p>This course is an introduction to the practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will be introduced to the key movements and styles which have shaped this subject area and have the opportunity to develop your graphic design skills.</p><p>The course will be taught in our dedicated Visual Communication studio which is equipped with macs and scanners, a range of Adobe software, drawing tablets, printers and a vast range of drawing and painting materials.<br> </p><p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image, type and layout to visually communicate ideas in a variety of different ways.<br> </p><ul><li>The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern.</li><li>How to create designs which communicate specific information.</li><li>Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief.</li><li>The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital.</li><li>The key movements and styles within the subject area.</li></ul><p>Please note that this course will explore physical, analogue methods within graphic design which will include some drawing. Computer software is not taught as part of the course.<br> </p><ul><li>Manipulate imagery, type, layout, colour, shape, pattern to communicate basic information. </li><li>Research, develop and realise simple graphic designs in response to a brief.</li><li>Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles. </li></ul><p>This course is suitable for beginners.</p><p><em>English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.</em><br> </p><ul><li>Presentations</li><li>Demonstrations</li><li>Practical work</li><li>Individual and group tutoring</li><li>Group discussion</li></ul><p>Additional/extension activities may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you.</p><p><em>Self-reflection is an important part of learning in art education and creative practice. You will be encouraged to engage with reflecting on your own work and progress as part of the learning process in Visual Arts.</em></p><p>At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required.<br> </p><p>We recommend looking at our Developing Graphic Design course as a next step in your progression. In addition, we offer a range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.</p><p>For more information about any of the courses on offer, please visit our website.</p><p><a href="http://citylit.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.citylit.ac.uk</a><br> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designvirtual3030283Introduction to graphic design399399https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/i/n/intro_graphic_design_web_01_1_1.jpgInStockDaytimeWedKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2026-10-07T00:00:00+00:00BeginnersOct 2026Art & designVZ372399399Introduction to graphic design319259399Andrew McCarten, Pam Williamsintroduction-to-graphic-design/vz372-2627<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image, type and layout to visually communicate ideas in a variety of different ways.<br> </p>0000-Available|2026-10-07 00:00:00<p>This course is an introduction to the practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will be introduced to the key movements and styles which have shaped this subject area and have the opportunity to develop your graphic design skills.</p><p>The course will be taught in our dedicated Visual Communication studio which is equipped with macs and scanners, a range of Adobe software, drawing tablets, printers and a vast range of drawing and painting materials.<br> </p><p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image, type and layout to visually communicate ideas in a variety of different ways.<br> </p><ul><li>The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern.</li><li>How to create designs which communicate specific information.</li><li>Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief.</li><li>The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital.</li><li>The key movements and styles within the subject area.</li></ul><p>Please note that this course will explore physical, analogue methods within graphic design which will include some drawing. Computer software is not taught as part of the course.<br> </p><ul><li>Manipulate imagery, type, layout, colour, shape, pattern to communicate basic information. </li><li>Research, develop and realise simple graphic designs in response to a brief.</li><li>Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles. </li></ul><p>This course is suitable for beginners.</p><p><em>English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.</em><br> </p><ul><li>Presentations</li><li>Demonstrations</li><li>Practical work</li><li>Individual and group tutoring</li><li>Group discussion</li></ul><p>Additional/extension activities may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you.</p><p><em>Self-reflection is an important part of learning in art education and creative practice. You will be encouraged to engage with reflecting on your own work and progress as part of the learning process in Visual Arts.</em></p><p>At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required.<br> </p><p>We recommend looking at our Developing Graphic Design course as a next step in your progression. In addition, we offer a range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.</p><p>For more information about any of the courses on offer, please visit our website.</p><p><a href="http://citylit.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.citylit.ac.uk</a><br> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designvirtual319399259VZ122,VZ378,VZ371,VZ372NONEWed,Thu09/09/26 - 28/10/2618:00 - 21:0018:0021:008 sessions (over 8 weeks)85-10 weeksWeekdayKSKeeley StreetAndrew McCarten, Pam Williams,John Smyth, Pam WilliamsBeginnersAvailable courses2027-01-06T00:00:00+00:00,2027-06-17T00:00:00+00:00,2026-09-09T00:00:00+00:00,2026-10-07T00:00:00+00:00Daytime,EveningJan 2027,Jun 2027,Sep 2026,Oct 2026Art & design399399Introduction to graphic designintroduction-to-graphic-design/vz122-2627,introduction-to-graphic-design/vz378-2627,introduction-to-graphic-design/vz371-2627,introduction-to-graphic-design/vz372-2627<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image, type and layout to visually communicate ideas in a variety of different ways.<br> </p>0000-Available|2026-09-09 00:00:00<p>This course is an introduction to the practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will be introduced to the key movements and styles which have shaped this subject area and have the opportunity to develop your graphic design skills.</p><p>The course will be taught in our dedicated Visual Communication studio which is equipped with macs and scanners, a range of Adobe software, drawing tablets, printers and a vast range of drawing and painting materials.<br> </p><p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image, type and layout to visually communicate ideas in a variety of different ways.<br> </p><ul><li>The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern.</li><li>How to create designs which communicate specific information.</li><li>Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief.</li><li>The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital.</li><li>The key movements and styles within the subject area.</li></ul><p>Please note that this course will explore physical, analogue methods within graphic design which will include some drawing. Computer software is not taught as part of the course.<br> </p><ul><li>Manipulate imagery, type, layout, colour, shape, pattern to communicate basic information. </li><li>Research, develop and realise simple graphic designs in response to a brief.</li><li>Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles. </li></ul><p>This course is suitable for beginners.</p><p><em>English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.</em><br> </p><ul><li>Presentations</li><li>Demonstrations</li><li>Practical work</li><li>Individual and group tutoring</li><li>Group discussion</li></ul><p>Additional/extension activities may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you.</p><p><em>Self-reflection is an important part of learning in art education and creative practice. You will be encouraged to engage with reflecting on your own work and progress as part of the learning process in Visual Arts.</em></p><p>At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required.<br> </p><p>We recommend looking at our Developing Graphic Design course as a next step in your progression. In addition, we offer a range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.</p><p>For more information about any of the courses on offer, please visit our website.</p><p><a href="http://citylit.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.citylit.ac.uk</a><br> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designconfigurable
